PGA of America president ousted over tweet

After sending an insensitive tweet directed at Ian Poulter a day earlier, Ted Bishop was ousted as president of the PGA of America.

The board of directors voted to remove Bishop from office, the PGA of America announced in a press release Friday evening. The board deemed his remarks inconsistent with the group's policies.

He had one month left on his two-year term.

Bishop tweeted at Poulter in response to the golfer's statement about Nick Faldo in his new book.

Bishop's tweet: "Faldo's record stands by itself. Six majors and all-time RC points. Yours vs. His? Lil girl."

He also posted this on Facebook, in response to Poulter's comments about Faldo: "Really? Sounds like a little school girl squealing during recess. C'MON MAN!"

"The PGA of America understands the enormous responsibility it has to lead this great game and to enrich lives in our society through golf," PGA Chief Executive Officer Pete Bevacqua said in the release. "We must demand of ourselves that we make golf both welcoming and inclusive to all who want to experience it, and everyone at the PGA of America must lead by example."

Bishop said in an email Thursday night to The Associated Press, "Obviously I could have selected some different ways to express my thoughts on Poulter's remarks. Golf had always been a sport where respect was shown to its icons. That seems to have gone by the wayside."

He has worked as general manager and PGA director of golf at The Legends Golf Club in Franklin, Ind., since 1991. He has served the PGA of America in several capacities as board member, vice president and past chair of the Code of Ethics Task Force.

"We understand and respect the PGA of America's decision regarding Ted Bishop," PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem said in a statement. "During Ted's presidency, he accomplished many positive things and the PGA of America and the PGA TOUR have worked in a much more collaborative and positive way as a result of his leadership. While his remarks on social media were unfortunate and inappropriate, Ted's apology was heartfelt and sincere. We will always appreciate Ted's commitment to the game of golf."

Vice president Derek Sprague has been appointed interim president until the election of national officers takes place Nov. 22 when Bishop's term was to expire.

At the Ryder Cup last month in Scotland, Bishop made news when he got "USA" shaved into the side of his head, showing the team spirit Rickie Fowler inspired.